Former boxing world champion Ricky Hatton has bravely revealed the heartbreaking decade-long estrangement from his parents amid allegations of missing millions that tore his family apart.
The Hitman, now 45, opens up about the devastating rift in his new documentary, detailing how the bitter dispute pushed him to the brink of despair following his retirement from the ring.
The Million-Pound Fallout
At the centre of the family breakdown lies a bitter financial dispute, with Hatton suggesting significant sums of money disappeared during his glittering boxing career. "There was millions gone," the Manchester-born fighter reveals, though he stops short of making direct accusations against his parents.
The emotional toll of the estrangement coincided with Hatton's darkest moments after hanging up his gloves. The boxer famously battled depression and substance abuse, once contemplating suicide during his downward spiral.
Rock Bottom and Recovery
Hatton describes hitting "rock bottom" following his retirement, a period where the absence of family support compounded his struggles. "When you're in that dark place, you need your mum and dad," he admits in the documentary.
The two-weight world champion credits his eventual recovery to finding purpose through coaching young fighters at his Hyde gym, helping them avoid the pitfalls that nearly destroyed his life.
A Fragile Reconciliation
While some communication has resumed between Hatton and his parents, the relationship remains strained. The boxer acknowledges they now exchange messages but describes the connection as "not the same" as before the fallout.
The documentary provides a raw, unfiltered look at the price of fame and the personal demons that often haunt athletes after their careers end, offering a powerful message about mental health awareness in sports.
